Picking up your pet’s poo prevents pollution

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, pet waste is a leading source of nutrient and bacteria pollution in urban streams and waterways. Bloomington City ordinance requires dog caregivers, whether the owner or handler, to clean up their pet’s poo from all public or private property. This means everywhere, including your yards.

Why? Pet waste contains three types of pollutants that harm local waters: nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus that deplete oxygen and encourage the growth of harmful algae, and disease-causing bacteria and parasites that can make water unsafe to swim in and unfishable. And the longer pet waste remains on the ground, the more pollutants seep out.

So be prepared. Keep waste bags on hand and pick up your pet’s poo. To learn more, call 952-563-8877 or visit blm.mn/dogwaste.